The History of Manassas, VA

Located within the Commonwealth of Virginia, is the independent city of Manassas, Virginia. Manassas was previously known as “Manassas Junction.” In 2010, according to the Census report, Manassas held a population of 37,821. The city resides alongside Manassas Park, Virginia (an independent city) and Prince William County, Virginia. For statistical purposes, Prince William County, Manassas Park as well as the city of Manassas are grouped together by the BEA or the Bureau of Economic Analysis. The Bureau of Economic Analysis is a U.S. government agency and a part of The United States Department of Commerce.

Additionally, in Prince William County, the city of Manassas serves as its seat. While the city encompasses the 38-acre county courthouse, yet the property of the county is separate and not a part of Manassas. There are many significant historical sites within the city of Manassas that occurred during the period between 1850 to 1870.

Positioned within the Northern Virginia area, the city of Manassas is incorporated with the Metropolitan Statistical Area, VA-WV-MD-DC, which consists of Alexandria, Arlington, and Washington

The city of Manassas, VA. is home to some significant history, similar to its surrounding areas, that should be noted and not forgotten. One such event that many may be aware of, is the First Battle of Bull Run, which took place on July 21st, 1861 in Prince William County. However, it was originally known as the First Battle of Manassas, which is notable as this was the first major battle on land that occurred during the American Civil War, which took place to the north of the city as well as around 25 miles from Washington D.C. On July 21st through July 24th, 2011, the city of Manassas, Virginia commemorated the First Battle of Manassas for its 150th anniversary. This battle resulted in a decisive victory for the Confederacy.

During August 28th to the 30th in 1862, just a little over one year and a month later, taking place in the Manassas vicinity, the Second Battle of Bull Run or the Second Battle of Manassas, was fought. During this time period, with rails leading to Washington D.C., the Shenandoah Valley and Richmond, Virginia, Manassas Junction was comprised of not much more than a railroad crossing, yet a tactical one due to the rails. For the majority of the war, Manassas Junction remained in Union possession, in spite of both battles resulting in victories for the Confederacy.

Incorporated in 1873 and following the war, the crossroads formed the city or for a better term, the town of Manassas, Virginia. Replacing Brentsville, Virginia, the town of Manassas was chosen as the county seat, in 1894, of Prince William County. Separated from Prince William County in 1975, by means of Virginia law, Manassas was incorporated as a city of independence.

The city of Manassas, Virginia withholds attributes listed on the National Register of Historic Places. These include Cannon Branch Fort, The Manassas Historic District, a plantation house, Liberia and the Manassas Industrial School for Colored Youth.